Black Women applaud selection of Dr. Leana Wen as new president of Planned Parenthood

Media Advisory:
Sept 13, 2018
Contact: Tavia Hartley (tavia@caminopr.com or 212-255-2575)

Statement from In Our Own Voice
WASHINGTON- Today, Planned Parenthood Federation of America announced the appointment of Dr. Leana Wen its new president. Marcela Howell, founder and executive director of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement in response:

“Congratulations to Dr. Leana Wen on her new position as president of Planned Parenthood Federation of America. We applaud the appointment of a doctor, an advocate and an immigrant to lead an organization that is a trusted provider of quality, affordable health care, especially for women of color and underserved communities.

“Women of color and immigrant women face systemic barriers to reproductive health care and Planned Parenthood clinics help to overcome some of these obstacles. As a physician, Dr. Wen brings crucial professional and personal experience as she takes the helm of Planned Parenthood. She surely understands the intersection of the issues connected to reproductive health and rights because of her lived experiences.

“During this critical time when women’s health and rights are under unprecedented attack, Dr. Wen is a welcomed ally and valuable advocate for Reproductive Justice. Her record of fighting to protect Maryland women and families from the Trump administration’s oppressive policies will be invaluable as she takes her place in the national movement for reproductive health, rights and justice.

“We wish Dr. Wen much success and look forward to working alongside her to ensure that all women have equal access to quality health care.”

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In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda is a national reproductive justice organization focused on lifting up the voices of Black women at the national and regional levels in our ongoing policy fight to secure reproductive justice for all women and girls.